BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Chairman, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Board, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has commended the progress made by the agency in enhancing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure while calling for sustained improvements to meet international standards.
Ganduje made these remarks during an official inspection tour of key aviation facilities, following an inaugural briefing with FAAN’s Managing Director and senior directors.
He noted that the agency is well-structured and led by a capable management team but emphasized the need for continuous investment to address existing challenges.
Reflecting on his impressions, Ganduje stated that his engagement with FAAN’s leadership and the subsequent tour of airport facilities provided valuable insights into the agency’s achievements and challenges.
“In the morning, we had an inaugural session with the Managing Director and all the directors, where we were given an overview of the agency’s functions.
”Now, we are on the practical side of things. We have seen the facilities, equipment, and overall environment, and we have taken note of the challenges highlighted by the MD,” Ganduje said.
He expressed confidence in the leadership of FAAN, stating, “My impression is that the agency is blessed with a competent Managing Director and directors. I have seen signs of motivation, seriousness, and a drive for achievement. Of course, there are challenges, and we have already begun discussions on how to resolve them.”
Ganduje acknowledged the challenges FAAN faces, particularly in completing long-abandoned projects, upgrading outdated equipment, and securing adequate funding for critical infrastructure improvements.
“Some of the challenges, as explained by the management, include abandoned projects that were awarded many years ago.
These projects were not initiated by the present administration, but due to rising costs, they remain incomplete. Additionally, some equipment installed years ago is now obsolete. However, FAAN has devised strategies to resolve these issues,” he noted.
On financing challenges, Ganduje emphasised the need for strategic planning to optimize available resources and scale up ongoing projects for maximum impact.
Speaking on FAAN’s ongoing projects, the Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, highlighted key initiatives aimed at enhancing safety, security, and passenger experience across Nigerian airports.
“As you have seen, we recently started upgrading our security infrastructure. Just two days ago, we began replacing our security equipment, introducing advanced explosive detection devices to enhance safety. This is part of a nationwide project to ensure a more secure aviation environment,” Kuku stated.
She also outlined ongoing terminal rehabilitation efforts, noting that several projects are set to be completed in the coming months.
“We have embarked on large-scale terminal renovations, particularly in Lagos and Abuja airports. We are improving facilities for passengers with disabilities, upgrading VIP lounges, and enhancing overall cleanliness and passenger facilitation,” she added.
Kuku revealed that FAAN’s operational focus for 2025 will center on strengthening safety and security measures, airport certification, and major runway rehabilitation projects.
“We started last year with a strong emphasis on safety and security, particularly on the runway and airside operations. This year, we are implementing an enhanced safety policy in close collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Additionally, we are working on recertifying the Kano and Port Harcourt airports, having successfully recertified two airports last year,” she explained.
She further highlighted FAAN’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, including ongoing runway and terminal rehabilitation efforts aimed at improving passenger experience and operational efficiency.
“Our goal is to create a more seamless, modernised, and passenger-friendly airport experience.
“While we acknowledge that we are not yet where we want to be, the feedback from passengers has been promising, and we are confident that with continued investment and dedication, we will achieve global standards,” Kuku concluded.
She noted that FAAN’s leadership, under the guidance of the board and management team, remains committed to enhancing Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
With strategic investments in infrastructure, safety, and service delivery, the agency aims to position the country’s airports as world-class aviation hubs.
